"Like many other first-year teachers, classroom management was my biggest struggle. Students would yell at me and then I would yell back....I learned quickly that this wasn't going to work. I also learned that students needed structure and routines. Many of the students I taught my first year had home experiences that were nothing like the way I grew up. I couldn't relate. I learned over the years that they just need someone to listen to them. I have completely changed my approach to classroom management and have seen great success in establishing routines and holding students to high expectations each and every day."

In Memoriam

About Connections

Connections amplifies the voices of Milken Educators by focusing attention on the work and experiences of excellent educators across the nation. Through articles written by and about the work of Milken Educators, as well as features exploring classroom technology, strategies, education news and more, Connections sparks meaningful conversations about education.